Breaking the Pink Tax: Empowering Change in Consumer Equality and Gender Bias
Did you know that some products marketed to women, like hygiene, cosmetics, and personal care items, cost more than similar products marketed to men? The latter group of products, while serving the same utility for both sets of consumers and comprising similar ingredients may vary slightly in terms of added fragrance or “pink” packaging to imply that they are made exclusively for women. This is called the “pink tax,” which can add up to a lot of extra money that women have to spend on everyday products.
These products are priced at rates almost 7 to 13 per cent more than the ones made for their male counterparts. Taking an example of value-for-money razors in India, ordinary razors meant for men are priced at around Rs. 25 to Rs. 50 whereas razors for women are priced between Rs. 70 and Rs. 250. Similarly, in the case of deodorants, the versions marketed for women cost somewhere between Rs.200 and Rs.500, while those for men are generally cheaper. Not just goods, the pink tax also affects the services industries such as salons and dry cleaners.
This discrepancy in pricing may not be very evident when we purchase products every day but it has a significant effect on the money a woman has to spend on regular products and services. This is a problem because it reinforces stereotypes about women being high maintenance and can make it harder for women to afford necessities. In some countries, there is a also pay gap between men and women, meaning that women earn less money for doing the same work. This makes it even harder for women to afford products and services that cost more because of the pink tax.
Some things can be done to address the pink tax. Companies should price things fairly, focusing on quality and demand, not whether they're for men or women. People speaking up about unfair prices can make a difference. We all need to learn more about unfair pricing, like the pink tax, and choose products that work the same for everyone. If governments make strict rules against such unfair taxes then marketers will be bound to follow them. Advertisers shouldn't make us feel like we need lots of products we don't need. Let's stop saying certain colours are just for boys or girls—it's not fair and it tricks us into buying stuff.
In underdeveloped countries, governments need initiatives to provide free menstrual products to women and girls who can't buy them. Sanitary pads are really important and should be a right for everyone, not just something people talk about. Companies should hire diversely and pay everyone the same for doing the same job. Women should be cheered on to become leaders in every job. I think it's super important that women get to make big decisions so they can fix things that affect them.
To sum up, it's important for everyone—governments, businesses, and people—to work together. We need to stop unfair pricing, give everyone the same chances at work, and support women in leadership roles. By being fair and equal, we can make things better for everyone.
Comments